Getting Kids Into Computing

How can you encourage children to get interested in computing as a career? Should you even try? I have mixed feelings, because I think kids already spend way too much time sitting on their bums, getting fat and nearsighted.

On the other hand, an entire generation raised only to be good little passive consumers scares me even more. And the demand for skilled IT persons grows every day.

So let's start from the assumption that your little spawnlings are destined for greater things than menial temp work. Let's assume that they have the desire and ability to master complex skills, understand advanced concepts, and really make a difference in the world...

The number one skillset that will take your precious genetic heritages far is people skills. She who knows how to listen, understand, speak clearly, and advocate effectively will have the entire world at her disposal. Typically, computer geeks think that being right is enough. Those of us who live in the real world know that this is barely a factor in decision-making.